Children’s Friendships: The Beginnings of Intimacy

Three arguments run through the book. The first is that friends can matter to a young child in a way that is different to parents and siblings. The second argument is that our understanding of a childs development can be greatly enhanced by studying children within these relationships. The third theme is that the influence a friend has on a child depends on the quality of their friendship. In a final section, the author draws out the practical implications of research for parents, teachers and those who care for children. She discusses how to manage friendships at different developmental stages, how to help children with friendship difficulties, and what to do about trouble-making friendships and bullying.